Bellarine Branch Spring Luncheon 2025 

“Lorraine Coles has organised the Spring Luncheon for 18 years and once again she did an outstanding job with her committee,” shares Penny Hawker, Bellarine Branch President.

Local chef and author Gabriel Gaté was a brilliant guest speaker, sharing stories about his French cooking journey since arriving in Australia in 1977. 69 guests enjoyed coq au vin (traditional French chicken stew) served with a potato gratin and salad, followed by a French custard cake served with cream and mixed berries for dessert. “We’ve had numerous texts of thanks and how much it was enjoyed,” Penny continues.

A successful raffle also took place, and the event raised $6,900 for Cottage. “The Ocean Grove Men’s Shed donated wonderful charcuterie boards with bread donated from Ket Baker. These were sold very quickly as an addition to the fundraising,” Penny adds.

Thank you to the following local businesses for their donations to the luncheon: Campbells Cash & Carry, Coles Head Office, Coles Ocean Grove, Ket Baker, Lard Ass Butter, Leura Park Estate Winery and Ocean Grove & District Men’s Shed.

We thank the Bellarine Branch for putting together such a fantastic event, along with Cottage Chef Kim, our dedicated volunteers and staff for the delicious French meal and support on the day.